In the 2027 season, ahead of the transition to the 850cc and Pirelli era in MotoGP, it was stated that Nicolo Bulega's superiority was validated by KTM. KTM Motorsport Director Beirer predicted that this advantage would only be valid for a short time.
A Good Package in the Hands of Ducati and Bulega
Bulega, who incorporates the experience gained from Pirelli tires from WorldSBK into the new 850cc MotoGP bike, stated that he would start in a better position on the grid than many others for the new season. The switch from Michelin tires to Pirelli tires provides a significant starting advantage for Bulega.
The comment that Pol Espargaro, the KTM test rider, considers the advantage Bulega will have on tracks he has previously tested as "unfair" drew attention. However, Beirer did not reject Bulega's advantage.
Ducati and Bulega have a really good package. Bulega knows the tires very well and is also working on the development of the new bike.
Prediction That the Advantage Will Be Short-Lived
KTM manager Beirer stated that this situation is temporary. When the new 850cc bikes fully enter into the paddock, manufacturers will continue to develop with all riders and test teams, and after that, everyone will move much faster. Beirer emphasized that KTM has experienced test riders like Pol Espargaro and Dani Pedrosa, and that the new bike is strongly prepared for the 2027 grid.
Emphasis on Not Violating Rules
Nicolo Bulega stated that the tests he conducted with the 850cc Ducati were not specifically arranged for him. He indicated that he does not monitor the parts or programs the rider desires during the test, asserting that the motorcycle is designed for the factory team riders and that his own development is inappropriate.
Bulega believes that knowing the new bike and the Pirelli tires in advance will be beneficial, while noting that MotoGP competitors focus on pace adaptation.
I know the bike and many things right now, but the level in MotoGP is unbelievable. It takes other riders a day or two to understand these things. I think we will all be on the same level when we arrive at the first race.
KTM as a Reference Point
An issue arose regarding Pedro Acosta's switch to Ducati. KTM allowed the reuse of the 2027 prototype during the test following the race at the Red Bull Ring. Beirer stated that this method aims for KTM's current fastest rider to create a direct example for the new bike.
For the 2027 season, KTM's factory riders Alex Marquez and Fabio Di Giannantonio will await the Valencia test with Pirelli-tired MotoGP bikes. In the Sepang Shakedown test, it was stated that the rules would not change and only MotoGP riders like Bulega can participate in the test. In the official test, the entire 2027 grid will be on track with 850cc bikes and Pirelli tires for the first time.
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Go to sourceCompiled by Şükrü Utku Poyraz
